Seven steps to help alleviate some financial burdens - 2004-02-01
Q: I am a 30-year-old married mother of two young boys. My husband and I both work at the same Florida resort. We make great money during the season. Then we struggle. I hope you can tell us the best way to save for our retirement.

Our company does offer a 401(k), but we haven't put anything in it for a couple of years. We've been talking about trying to pay off our house early by adding extra payments to the principal on our 30-year mortgage loan.
Read the full story at Seattle Times

Missouri Taxpayers Should File Early for Refunds, Officials Suggests - 2004-02-01
Missouri tax officials have a simple message for anyone looking for a refund: File your state return early, or you might have to wait months for the cash.

The standard deduction is a reduction of taxable income. In lieu of the standard deduction, many filers itemize, claiming deductions for things like mortgage interest and property taxes.
Read the full story at Miami Herald